Retired Police Officer Defeats Popular Ex-Governor, Serving Senator to APC Senate Ticket 

Senator Muhammad Danjuma Goje has officially lost the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket for the Gombe Central District in the lead-up to the 2027 general election.

He faced defeat in a direct primary election conducted on Monday, which took place across the Akko and Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Areas that comprise the senatorial district.

Retired DCP Ahmed emerges winner

The Returning Officer of the election, Dr Habu Dahiru, declared that retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Ahmed, emerged winner of the contest.

According to the official result, Ahmed polled 42,785 votes, while Senator Goje scored 10,425 votes.

Ahmed, who was earlier adopted as a consensus candidate for the APC senatorial ticket in Gombe Central, secured a clear victory in the exercise.

Goje’s long political hold ends

Goje has represented Gombe Central in the Senate since 2011, following his two-term tenure as governor of Gombe state.

His defeat marks a major political shift in the senatorial district, reshaping the political landscape ahead of the next general election.

Speaking with journalists after the announcement, Mohammed Ahmed said the primary election was conducted peacefully without any form of disruption.

He noted that the outcome reflected growing support for what he described as a desire for change among party members and residents of the district.

According to him, many constituents believe it is time for stronger representation at the National Assembly.

“You can see the excitement among the people. Many believe the time has come for Yamaltu-Deba to have a stronger voice at the national level,” he said.

Ahmed added that his ambition was driven by the demand for a new direction rather than personal interest or exclusion of other aspirants.

When contacted, an aide to Senator Goje declined to comment on the outcome, saying he would first seek clearance from his principal before speaking to the media.